Citizen Khan gets second series from BBC despite ‘anti-Islam’ controversy

The BBC has recommissioned Citizen Khan, despite complaints from some viewers that the first series mocked Islam.

Adil Ray, pictured here, is the creator and lead actor in Citizen Khan (Picture: BBC)

The BBC has handed Adil Ray a second season of his studio-based sitcom, which follows the ups and downs of the Khan family, who live in the Sparkhill area in Birmingham.

Despite the fact that show creator and lead actor Ray is a Muslim himself, Citizen Khan attracted criticism from some viewers who believed it mocked Islam.

But the programme performed consistently in the ratings, kicking off with a respectable 3.7m viewers for its first episode and ending with a cross-series average of 3m.Ray said of the BBC’s decision to recommission Citizen Khan: ‘I am thrilled. This is testament to the hard work of the cast, my co-writers and the entire crew.

Citizen Khan came under fire from some viewers, but has been renewed for a second series (Picture: BBC)

‘I have been touched to hear from families nationwide who have already taken this cuddly, bearded Pakistani Muslim from Birmingham into their hearts and living rooms.

‘Above all, I thank community leaders who continue to spring up everywhere who provide the inspiration.’BBC1 controller Danny Cohen said the series was a ‘laugh-out-loud family comedy for all generations.’‘Citizen Khan has delivered this whilst bringing new comic talent and a fresh flavour to the channel. I can’t wait for the second series,’ he added.Mark Freeland, head of BBC Comedy, said: ‘With sitcom, to grab attention all you can ask is laugh-out-loud funny distinctiveness, authenticity and great characters. I think we’ve certainly grabbed people’s attention.’